Should school start later in the morning?
Imagine being able to wake up in the morning and having a little bit more time to be able to work on some homework you didn’t get done the night before. Would you be more relaxed knowing you could go home after a long day at school and be able to just relax, go on your phone, or even take a nap? Sleep is something that the body needs. Without it, your body can’t function properly.
Why make school start times so early when you aren’t able to function as well? There are many different opinions about whether school start times are too early or not early enough. Many argue that when school begins too early in the morning, many students struggle to stay alert and on task which makes it harder for them to understand the lessons, complete assignments on time, and fully participate in class. Earlier start times also leave students rushed in the morning, leaving them little time to wake up, get ready, and prepare themselves for the day. By starting school later students would have the opportunity to rest properly, maintain healthier routines and perform better in school.
While others argue school start times are better earlier in the morning because it leaves more time after school to do after school activities, It is a mix of thoughts and opinions when it comes to this question whether or not school start times are too early.
Research strongly suggests that if middle and high schools started no earlier than 8:30 AM, it would improve performance in schools.
In 2019, California passed a law requiring most high schools to start no earlier than 8:30 a.m., becoming one of the first states to mandate later start times. Supporters hope similar policies will spread nationwide. However, not everyone agrees that changing start times is ideal. People argue that later school days would create transportation challenges. Many districts use the same buses for elementary, middle, and high schools. Changing one schedule could require hiring more drivers and purchasing more buses, which would increase costs. Afterschool activities are another concern. Sports practices, games, and clubs could end later in the evening, leaving students with less time for homework.
During winter, students especially need more sleep due to the lack of sunlight and energy fueling them. It’s usually recommended to get 1-2 more hours of sleep during the winter so you have more energy for the rest of the day. When a student was interviewed and asked about how they feel on the topic of whether or not school start times should be earlier they replied back with, “In my opinion school start times are too early. I’m always tired in the morning and it makes it harder to focus in class,” said a student, adding that getting more sleep would make mornings much easier. This shows adjusting school start times could help students get the rest they need, to stay focused, and succeed in their classes.
